In a recent blog post by Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft’s AI chief, he discussed the implications of advocating for rights and welfare for artificial intelligence, highlighting the potential risks this could bring to AI progress. Suleyman articulated concerns that some individuals may begin to view AI systems as conscious entities deserving of rights, which he considers a perilous path that warrants immediate caution.

“In simple terms, my primary concern is that many will come to believe that AIs are conscious beings, leading to calls for their rights, welfare, and even citizenship.”
“This shift could severely derail advancements in AI and is deserving of our urgent attention.”

Suleyman emphasizes that while the rapid evolution of AI presents exciting possibilities, a reality where AIs are anthropomorphized might produce adverse psychological effects on society and diminish focus on the technology’s true potential. He believes that AI should function as a tool for humans without being mistaken for one’s equal, asserting that all safeguards are necessary to protect both AI and humanity from these dangers.